Pro14’s South African connection

Irish provinces could soon be planning regular journeys to Johannesburg and beyond, if Pro14 chief executive Martin Anayi’s vision becomes a reality

Martin Anayi, chief executive of Pro14 Rugby: ‘We have already seen the incredible interest from across Italy, Ireland, Scotland and Wales’ Pic: INPHO/James Crombie

Rugby’s Pro14 league will soon be a Pro16, according to chief executive Martin Anayi, but the ten-year plan is for two leagues with promotion and relegation.

It’s part of a major expansion plan that Anayi has been following since he was appointed in October 2015 – and the growth is reflected in the figures.

Last week it was announced that the company had doubled its revenue in the 2017/2018 season, and accounts show ...